Chicago White Sox to become 1st MLB team to extend protective netting to foul poles

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago White Sox are taking new steps to protect fans at Guaranteed Rate Field.

The White Sox will become the first Major League Baseball team to extend the netting to the corners of the outfield.

"I don't get nervous normally when I go to a baseball game," said Sox fan Brian Pedersen. "I pay attention to the game but i just think it's a good idea to extend the netting all the way to the foul poles."

This comes a week after a woman at Guaranteed Rate Field was struck in the head by a foul ball and hospitalized. Plans are in place to extend the netting all the way to the outfield, stopping at the foul poles, as soon as possible.

'I'm just praying' Albert Almora Jr, father of 2, opens up about horror of girl being hit by foul ball

An emotional Albert Almora Jr. said that he tried to keep his composure after he realized the foul ball hit the little girl, but he broke down during the inning.

"No matter how much you're paying attention to the game, if that thing is coming in at 115 miles-an-hour with tail, no matter if you have a glove this big, it could hit you right in the forehead," White Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito.

Players are applauding the measure, including Cubs center fielder Albert Almora Jr. He hit a foul ball in Houston that hit a little girl in the stands.

"I don't think anybody should go home with bumps or bruises or even worse, so whatever they have to do to take care of that, I'm glad they're taking procedures," Almora said.

Some fans said they hope that the White Sox decision will start a trend.

Before the 2018 season, every team extended the netting to the end of each dugout. But Major League Baseball has left the decision of increased netting up to each team and the White Sox decision could just start a trend.